Storytelling and history blend together to create a unique theatrical experience: Dief the Chief: October ’62 takes you on a journey back in time to the Cuban Missile Crisis, seen through the eyes of Prime Minister Diefenbaker as he carries out his duties inside the Diefenbunker.
Historical context
John “Dief the Chief” Diefenbaker was the 13th Prime Minister of Canada, serving from 1957 to 1963. During his tenure, he played a significant role in the Cuban Missile Crisis, where his actions, though controversial, balanced navigating Canada’s complex relations with the US and preventing a broader conflict during a critical period in history. In October 1962, it was announced that the Soviet Union was placing nuclear missiles in Cuba, just 145 kilometres away from the United States. Diefenbaker’s government was initially opposed to any direct involvement in the crisis, but as tensions escalated, he eventually supported the US-led naval quarantine of Cuba and agreed to host American nuclear-armed B-52 bombers on Canadian soil.
The Diefenbunker, which at the time was referred to under the code name Project Emergency Army Signals Establishment (EASE), was commissioned by Diefenbaker and was secretly built underground in Carp, Ontario. The bunker was activated in 1962, and served as a command centre, ready at any moment to shelter the Canadian government and military leaders if a nuclear attack on the country was detected.
Theatrical rendition
Dief the Chief: October ’62 invites visitors on a touring play throughout the Diefenbunker, led by actors Pierre Brault and Peter Haworth. In this gripping play, “Dief the Chief” takes playgoers on a journey as Diefenbaker recounts his tumultuous relationship with President John F. Kennedy and how it impacted Canadian and American relations. Witness firsthand how the two leaders’ differing personalities and policies created a crisis that brought the world to the brink of nuclear war.
Follow the actors through historic spaces in the Diefenbunker and experience the weight of responsibility as Diefenbaker grapples with the personal cost of his decisions, from dealing with a demanding president to a divided cabinet and fierce opposition. Step into the War Cabinet Room and relive the intense moments of October 1962 as “Dief the Chief” navigates the treacherous waters of the Cuban Missile Crisis.
This immersive production brings to life the heart-stopping story of one of Canada’s most significant historical moments, offering a unique glimpse into the inner workings of government during a time of great uncertainty and danger. We invite you to experience this history for yourself in a one-of-a-kind artistic interpretation, 75 feet underground at the Diefenbunker.
2024 Showtimes
Created specifically for the Diefenbunker, the popular play Dief the Chief: October ’62 returns for its fourth year.
>> Friday, June 14 & Saturday, June 15
>> Friday, July 26 & Saturday, July 27
>> Friday, August 16 & Saturday, August 17
On each day, the play has three showings:
>> 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
>> 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
>> 8:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.